Northwestern Community Services Board launches Awareness 2 Action, a new podcast hosted by Casey Dwyer

Northwestern Community Services’ Prevention Department has launched a new podcast, titled Awareness 2 Action. The podcast, which focuses on promoting wellness in the Shenandoah Valley through conversation, connection and action, highlights the stories of individuals making a difference in their communities and dives into how their life experiences have impacted their work.

The most recent episode featured Kym Laube, Executive Director of HUGS, Inc (Human Understanding Growth Services, Inc.), located in Westhamptom Beach, NY. Kym shares parts of her story, the passion she brings to her work, and the foundational belief that strong, healthy, caring connections can powerfully impact individuals and communities; “If we really begin to create opportunities for (young people) to meaningfully engage and feel connected… and feel that the adults in the community are rallying around them and have their back, then that really begins to create an environment where young people can thrive.”

Other guests from season 1 have included Miss America Camille Schrier, local Peer Recovery Specialist Jimeca Iyomere, and Keith Cartwright Behavioral Health Wellness Consultant at Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.

Casey Dwyer, Host of Awareness 2 Action says, “Launching the podcast has been such an exciting experience. It’s inspiring and encouraging to connect with individuals who are going above and beyond for their communities. I think it’s also a special experience for our guests to have the opportunity to share their stories and knowledge with listeners who are eager to be involved in their own communities.”

Fans of the podcast can contact Shannon Urum, Prevention Services Coordinator, at shannon.urum@nwcsb.com. They can also follow the department on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @LordFairfaxYRA to stay up-to-date with the latest from Awareness 2 Action.

Awareness 2 Action is available on all major platforms. To listen, visit:

• Podbean
• Apple Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Spotify
• Amazon Music/Audible
• iHeartRadio

About the Prevention Department at Northwestern Community Services Board

The Prevention Department at Northwestern Community Services Board has a mission to prevent substance misuse and suicide and to promote mental wellness in the Lord Fairfax Planning District. The Department utilizes evidence-based programs, practices and strategies targeting concerns identified by needs assessments and using the Strategic Prevention Framework as its guide. An emphasis is placed on community collaboration and mobilization, enabling groups to be brought together for the benefit of the community. Find more information at www.nwcsb.com/prevention.